ValJean

Just chiming in to agree with everyone here. When I bought my bike last summer, I went to a local shop and the owner was extremely helpful in finding the right bike for my size. It was used, so I got a great deal, too.

Congratulations! You're doing awesome!

You look stunning! Congratulations on your success!

I thought it would be awful too, but it wasn't bad at all! I would puree things like ground turkey or chicken breast with some refried beans (or any kind of beans really) and add some spices. Actually tastes really good!

I don't know why, but I forget about the powders—need to start buying those instead of the pre-mades, which are pricey. Thanks for the reminder!

Congratulations on your new goals! Being honest with ourselves is sometimes the hardest thing to do; I am inspired by your willingness to be so honest and share your struggles with us. Good luck—you can do it!

I just figured this out, and its been making my mornings very happy--thought I'd share. Instead of mourning the loss of a favorite Starbucks treat (or wasting the calories on one), I suggest trying this simple trick for a very tasty iced "mocha": Get a plain iced coffee, add one prepared chocolate EAS AdvantEdge Protein shake. Low carb, 110 calories, 17 grams of protein. soooo good!:tt1:

Thanks for your encouraging post and congratulations on your amazing success. You are an inspiration!

Hi, I wasn't self-pay, but I just wanted to let you know that I was banded at DayOne in Chicago and they are amazing. Dr. Galvani is great, and the entire staff is so friendly, helpful, and supportive. I would highly recommend giving them a call and talk to their financial folks about payment plan options. Good luck!

Something you might want to try is "velveting" your chicken (it's a technique used in Chinese cooking that keeps the meat moist when cooking). slice chicken into bite-sized pieces, and toss in a mixture one egg white and one tsp of cornstarch. Let this "marinate" for about 30 minutes. Pan fry with a small amount of olive oil (or just spray the pan with PAM to reduce fat in cooking).

As someone who is also on medication for anxiety and depression, I would suggest that you talk to your doc ASAP about the hives; don't wait. The reason I say this (besides the fact that dealing with hives any longer than absolutely necessary sounds awful!), is because when I went in for my initial consultations for the lapband, my mental health issues were definitely a hurdle—there was increased concern about my ability to deal with the lifestyle change because of my condition, and the possibility of an increase in my depression/anxiety. So, I think it's important to be in a place where your meds are really working for you, and you're not suffering from any really troubling side effects (mental or physical). Hope that helps somewhat. I just think it's always best to be up front with your doc, saves time and trouble in the long run! Good luck! Valerie

Yes, my doctor told me just before my surgery that he was going to try for a one incision procedure, but needed the second entry point for the laporoscope. So I actually ended up with a two incision procedure (one larger incision just above my belly button, about 1 1/2 inch long), and a second, very tiny incision under my left breast (about a centimeter, if that).

I also love using plain greek yogurt instead of mayo in tuna or chicken salad, just season with some salt & pepper, maybe curry powder or tarragon; tastes great!

Congratulations!!!!

YES! It's so funny, I was just telling my boyfriend this week that it seems lately I'm always chilly. I used to almost always wear short sleeves indoors, but now I need a sweater, plus a shawl around my shoulders in my office. I wasn't worried about it but still, I'm glad to hear that it's not just me!

Hi Michele, I was banded on Jan 28th, and I felt the exact same way—it was the only real negative side effect I had, actually. General lethargy, and extreme exhaustion after pretty minor tasks. The first two full weeks back at work (where I have a desk job) were hell for me. I expected to be a ball of energy after the surgery, and I was so disappointed in myself for being tired all the time. It sucked, to be blunt! BUT--it does get better! The most important thing for me was to listen to my body, cut myself some slack and be "lazy" if I needed to be (even let the housework slide), and build back up to my normal routine gradually. I think kra102's suggestion is a good one, just try to do some light moving around/walking every hour or so, nothing strenuous. If you're able to during your work day, I suggest you take small breaks, step outside for fresh air and a quick walk around the block--it helped me alot. Also, just getting more sleep at night those first couple weeks was a huge necessity for me. It felt weird, but I'd force myself into bed pretty early (8pm some days), so I could get 9-10 hours. I know that's not practical for everyone, of course, but if you can swing it, I'd highly recommend it! And, of course, make sure you're getting plenty of Water and Protein and taking your Vitamins. Most important--DON'T beat yourself up! You've made a huge life change that will take some adjusting to. And everyone's body is different. Some people bounce right back, other's require more time and TLC. If you're feeling over stressed about it, call your doctor and let him/her know what's up. Hope some of that is helpful. Congratulations on your band and good luck! Valerie

I had 2 incisions--1 that is about 1.5 inches long, right by my belly button, and a 2nd that is TINY, maybe a centimeter, just below my left breast. (Dr planned to do just 1, but ended up needing another entry point for the laparoscope.) My recovery was pretty smooth. My doc closed the incision with dermabond, which kind of freaked me out (I was sure I'd laugh too hard and pop it open or something!) but I didn't have any problems at all. Good luck!

Great job everyone! I just did my weekly weigh-in and am at 253.8— .2 lbs past my goal! I think I'll shoot for another 4 lbs by April 1.

Just wanted to say hi—I'm a Chicagoan as well! I was banded at Day One Health by Dr. Galvani. He is wonderful, but my first attempt at attending the support group there was a total bust--no one showed, turns out they had changed locations and I had been given the old info! I'll give it another try this month. Anyone in the downtown area that might be interested in meeting up sometime for a lunch or tea or something? I'm eager to meet some fellow bandsters in person! Hope to hear from you! Valerie

I've been able to swallow my regular multi-vitamin if I cut it in half, but that may not work for you... I got the Alive liquid for post op, and that stuff is EVIL! I was able to choke it down for almost 3 weeks, then had to stop...I would dread getting up in the morning just because I knew it was waiting for me! Really nasty stuff.

Yes and yes--I was panicked and crying by the time the anesthesiologist came in--really freaking out. She put in my IV and gave me something that calmed me right down. I don't know what it was, but within a minute or two my tears had dried up and I was like "Let's do this!" Not sure if they give that to everyone or not, but you should ask your anesthesiologist before your surgery date. Good luck! Val

Hi, I had my first fill last week, and I felt exactly the same way for the first day or two, then it got better. I have had a couple days since where I've been a bit nauseous in the morning, though.

I know some people love them, but the fruity Isopure drinks made me gag; I couldn't drink them (and still have $50 worth of them in my cupboard!). So I'd suggest trying one first, before you stock up. Imagine brand has really great creamy veggie soups that are low cal/low carb, and organic (I think)—they come in cartons, similar to chicken broth. I got them at whole foods, but just saw them on the shelf in my regular grocery store the other day (in the "natural foods" section). They are really delicious, and saved my life during the pre op liquid stage. Good luck! Valerie

How'd it go? I also had my first fill today. So far so good. Just got home and am drinking water easily.

Hi Kimmie, I was banded on Jan 28th and my 30th birthday was this past weekend too, the 22nd! I am struggling with little to no restriction also—I started tracking my calories on fitday.com, and that has been a huge help. Also, working out first thing in the morning seems to start me off on the right track for the day, and keeps my eating in check (as opposed to trying to force myself to do it after work when I am hungry and tired..I am the master of finding an excuse then!) I go for my first fill tomorrow—I'll let you know how it goes. And if you're looking for a fellow January bandster (and Pisces) friend, please send me a message or add me as a friend and we can keep in touch. Good luck and happy 30! Valerie